The Night George Foreman Became Immortal (1994)

How a 45-year-old preacher shocked the world and redefined what was possible in sports.

In November 1994, the MGM Grand Garden Arena was packed with fans expecting to watch a formality. Michael Moorer, 26 years old, undefeated, elusive, and at the peak of his powers, would retain his heavyweight title. George Foreman — at 45 — was supposed to be the sentimental storyline, a feel-good myth with gloves.

Foreman had been a destroyer in the 1970s. He once knocked down Joe Frazier six times in two rounds. He was the man who sent Ken Norton into another dimension with a single punch. But the George who entered the ring against Moorer wasn’t that man. This George was older, rounder, slower… but wiser.

For nine rounds, Moorer controlled the fight. He jabbed, moved, and landed combinations that snapped Foreman’s head back. Teddy Atlas screamed from the corner for Moorer to stay off the ropes. The instructions went ignored.

Then came the 10th round.

Foreman stepped forward like a tank on one last mission. He fired a jab to measure distance — not fast, but heavy — and then unleashed a right hand that detonated like a grenade on Moorer’s jaw. Moorer collapsed flat on his back.

At 45 years old, George Foreman became the oldest heavyweight champion in history. A record untouched to this day.

Two years later, he would become a global icon yet again — not for boxing, but for a grill that made him more money than his entire boxing career.

Some legends don’t age. They just change industries.